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Window Repairs Can Save Homeowners Time and Money Window repairs can cut down on time and cost for homeowners. However, there are instances when replacing windows that are old is more cost-effective. Stray baseballs and thrown projectiles often cause cracks or holes in window glass. With the right tools, these are easy solutions. If the frame of the unit is decayed, it's better to replace the whole unit. Broken or cracked glass A severe storm or a stray pebble from the lawnmowers, or your favorite vase pushed down too hard can crack the glass in your windows. Fortunately with a little effort and effort can stop these cracks from getting worse and save you the expense of replacing glass. First, you must remove the broken glass. Wearing gloves, carefully remove any trim, molding or glazing putty that holds the glass in the frame. You may have to use an utility knife to get rid of any glass pieces that are stuck in the frame. After removing the glass clean the surface and the surrounding areas thoroughly. This will help prevent the glue used to put the glass back to its original position from leaking and causing more damage. Make sure that the glass you are replacing is a good fit. If the glass you're replacing is bigger than the previous piece, you will need to use a circular or mitersaw to trim it. After your surface is cleaned, you can apply a glass glue designed specifically for window glass. Then, you can reinstall the glass inside the window sash. Avoid flexing the glass or moving it during this process. This could cause cracks to grow deeper. You can also use products such as Loctite Super Glue Glass, which will fill the crack and then seal it. It's formulated to work with all types of glass, including tinted windows. Be aware that this kind of fix will not completely cover the crack, therefore it's not a suitable choice for windows that are easily visible from the outside. Epoxy is a different option. It is more time-consuming, however it offers the highest seal and can make your glass break virtually unnoticeable. Before applying epoxy you'll need to scrub your glass and the surrounding area thoroughly. Also, you'll need be prepared for any unexpected weather changes that could cause the crack to widen and then widen again. If you are not confident with these DIY techniques, or if your cracked glass is large or a two-paned, it is best to call the professionals. Sashes that won't let you open A window that isn't able to stay up isn't just a nuisance; it can also be a danger. upvc window repairs near me -hung and single-hung windows come equipped with balancing mechanisms to prevent the sash from moving. However one or more of these mechanisms can be damaged or disconnected. Check the balance bar and pivot shoe to determine if either or both have become dislodged. You will have to replace the bar pivot and balance shoe if they have been dislodged. Moisture in the window frames of the sash can cause cycles of expansion or contraction. In time, this may weaken the joints of the frame and cause them to sag. You might be able to repair this without taking down the window by running a utility knife around the joints of the frame and then prying them open. If your wood appears to be swelling, it's typically because of a lack of flashing on the exterior of your house which allows water to enter the frame. Another reason that can cause windows that aren't opening is a snapped sash cord. It is possible to reconnect the cord using pliers and by sliding the sash into its normal position. If the cord snapped completely, you will have to replace it. Paint can also make a window difficult to move. If you discover that the sash channel of double-hung windows has been closed with paint it is possible to break the bond by scoring the paint with a utility knife and trying to move it. If this does not work, you'll need to remove the window sash and then cut the seam on both sides between the sash, stop, parting strip, or jamb (Photo 1). The sash shoes that are used in single-hung windows are made of metal or plastic. They feature a U-shaped slot inside them that is locked when the shoe is in its normal place within the sash. To unlock the shoe, use an screwdriver to turn the slot until it faces the other way (Photo 2). You can then move the sash back forward to determine whether it functions properly. Rotting Wood Wood rot isn't only visually unattractive, but it can cause serious harm to the structural integrity in the area of the home it has infested. The fungus responsible for it feeds on moisture and transforms wooden beams, walls, and joists into a soggy mucus. The best way to prevent decay is to ensure that your home is maintained and areas that have exposure to elements are properly protected. However, even if you're vigilant, it only takes one missed painting cycle, clogged gutter or a minor leak in the roof to expose the window frames, porch columns and other parts of your house to a myriad of decay organisms that can quickly destroy the structure and weaken its structural integrity. Most wood decay is caused by excessive moisture content, which can be caused by condensation, rainwater seepage or rising dampness. This can happen when a damp-proof course is not installed or damaged or when internal materials such as plaster and drywall become affected by leaky pipes, appliances and fixtures. The first step to repair rot involves removing the old material. It's usually simple to do with a pry-bar, but a combination hammer/chisel might be required for the most difficult places. After the rotten wood has been removed, the hole needs to be caulked and filled. There are many types of wood fillers. The most effective one will depend on how much work you want to do and how deep the hole is. If the rot has spread too far for a filler to perform, you will need to replace the damaged component. You can hire an expert to do this or do it yourself. This is a more complicated task that requires the expertise of a carpenter to complete. If you're unsure of your ability to do this yourself, then it's best to contact a professional. While repairing wood that has rotted is a possibility however, it's much more effective (and cheaper) to prevent it in the beginning. Prevention measures include sealing cracks around windows, scraping and repainting caulk and installing a drip edge on the roof to stop water from splashing up onto the trim on the exterior. You should also be looking for signs of excessive humidity around your window, and consider installing a dehumidifier to keep the humidity levels under control. Dirty Seals Water that drips around or under a window is probably the most obvious sign that window seals are shrinking. It's possible to spot, but it's often hidden behind the wall. This can result in soft wood, mold and even structural damage to your RV. The best way to safeguard your windows is to keep them clean by performing regular cleaning and inspection checks. You can spot soft spots by gently pressing on the seal trim while inspecting. Fogged windows are another common sign of a failing seal. While they won't cause structural damage or increase your power bill, they can take away from the appearance of your RV. The weather is the main factor in the failure of window seals. In hot temperatures, seals expand while in colder temperatures they contract. You can reduce this effect by keeping your camper away from direct sunlight and keeping it under cover when possible. A simple car wash can assist in preventing the salt from causing damage to the rubber seals on your windows. Other factors that can cause window seal failure include scrubbing the seals using brushes and washrags that contain cleaning chemicals that degrade the rubber. Seals may become brittle and more prone to cracking. The best way to avoid this is to avoid using harsh cleaners on your windows and to keep the windows' seals and sash tracks clean with a dry brush. This is the simplest and most affordable method to safeguard the windows of your RV. It also gives you the opportunity to examine the condition of your window seals and make repairs that can save you from costly future issues. It is more expensive to have your window seals lubricated or replaced with 303 Protectant spray. However, it's still less expensive than fixing water damage caused by failed sealing. This is a simple DIY project that can extend the life of your RV windows and help you save money.